"I DRANK nine litres of cider a day for years and years, and now after being drink-free for 180 days, I have achieved awards I would have never dreamed of."
These are the words of former alcoholic and homeless person Linda McKone, from Grimsby, who has turned her life around with the help of the Salvation Army.
And an awards ceremony celebrated the achievements of people such as Linda who have gained City and Guilds qualifications to enhance their employability.
The event not only showcased the 15 proud achievers, but it also marked a year since the charity started housing 35 homeless people in their new building called Booth Lifehouse, on the corner of Eleanor Street, in Grimsby.
Linda, 50, who lives in Grimsby, achieved the Endeavour Shield at the event.
She lived at the centre during her detox.
"I didn't expect to gain this shield at all," she said.
"They have been supportive 100 per cent all the way, and I have never tried to come off alcohol for myself, it was always for an excuse – but this time I wanted to do it for me.
"I am originally from Bradford and came to Grimsby four years ago to find refuge.
"I feel brilliant now I'm not drinking. I won't go back onto it."
She added: "I can't have a celebratory drink tonight, because once I have one that's it I want more.
"I detoxed without any medical help. It was difficult, but I had all the support I needed at the Salvation Army.
"And now I have got a little detached house in Grimsby. Life is looking up."
Sally Ann Lidgard, 39, was scared of computers until she started her Level 3 IT course for online basics, security and privacy.
"I moved into the Booth in September, and I didn't have a clue about computers," she said.
"I am really pleased with my qualifications now because it is a good thing to have when looking for work. The next thing I want to do is forklift training because I want a job in it."
Tom Rochford, 31, from Cleethorpes, is an ex-resident of the Booth and achieved awards in social networking and online basics.
His passion for computers has spurred him on to do a degree.
"I am looking forward to going one step further and doing a degree in media," Tom said.
"I am like a little kid because I love games – I haven't got a favourite because they are all amazing."
GRIMSBY TELEGRAPH EDITOR'S VIEWLinda McKone speaks honestly in our paper today about her battle with alcohol and her ability to turn her life around, thanks to the Salvation Army. Linda will be one of many who have been helped in some way, shape or form by this organisation. It is sometimes easy to forget the work that is conducted by those who give their time to groups, like the Salvation Army, which have existed for many years and quietly get on with vital work within communities. The range of work that they carry out and the amount of people they help is endless – and possibly needed in this country, now more than ever. Linda is just one of many who will be ever thankful to them for their help and continued support.Have you been helped by the Salvation Army?Follow the editor on Twitter @michellelalor